1986 Chevrolet Blazer 4X4 – A Classic Built for the Trail and Time

The 1986 Chevrolet Blazer marked the end of an era—wrapping up the final full production year for the first-generation K5 Blazer, which had earned a reputation as a rugged, go-anywhere 4x4 with daily drivability. By the mid-1980s, the Blazer had evolved into more than just a barebones off-roader. It had become a favorite among outdoorsmen and suburban drivers alike, offering the rare blend of brawny capability and refined comfort. With its removable fiberglass rear top, full-frame construction, and optional luxury appointments, the K5 Blazer stood out as one of Chevrolet’s most versatile vehicles of its time.

This particular 1986 Blazer, finished in its original Code 72 Apple Red with a Code 12 White Top, encapsulates the spirit of the era. Repainted in its factory-correct colors, the truck’s bold two-tone exterior is paired with factory 15” Rally wheels and rugged 31x10.50 Wild Trac Radial XRS tires, giving it a commanding yet period-correct look. Underneath, it remains very solid, with clean floor pans and only minor age-related corrosion—a testament to its well-preserved condition.

Powered by its numbers-matching 350ci V8, this Blazer delivers that classic small-block sound through stock exhaust manifolds, a crossover pipe, and an aftermarket muffler with full tailpipes and tips. The engine breathes through a 4-barrel carburetor and remains original in appearance, backed by the durable 700R4 overdrive automatic transmission and a New Process 208C transfer case. Together with automatic locking hubs and power front disc brakes, this Blazer is every bit the 4x4 workhorse it was built to be—updated just enough to feel modern where it counts.

Inside, it features the original Code 162D Saddle Tan Custom Cloth interior, a warm and inviting space that reflects Chevrolet’s move toward comfort without losing toughness. Factory options abound: manual bucket seats, center console, tilt column, intermittent wipers, cruise control (currently inop), power windows and locks, and an electric tailgate window that still functions from the dash switch. A period-correct AM/FM cassette player and a subtle two-gauge pod (oil & water temp) under the dash add both retro flair and practical monitoring. The only interior deviation is some wind noise from the driver’s door and a crack on the passenger A-pillar, but the overall originality and preservation shine through.

Mechanically, it’s been thoroughly sorted and well-maintained. The check-in inspection from PC Classic Cars shows that it starts, runs, and drives excellent—with cold R134A-converted factory air conditioning, solid braking, and good suspension components. While the steering shows minor play, it still tracks confidently at highway speeds. The speedometer reads 10 mph fast, but otherwise, it cruises comfortably—even at 70 mph—highlighting just how road-ready this classic 4x4 remains. Notable undercarriage features include front quad shocks, a steering stabilizer, and a rear trailer hitch, showing it was well-equipped for both off-road exploration and hauling duty.

The 80,390 actual miles are supported by a clean CarFax, which also tracks a California-based life through the early 2000s before the Blazer was later titled in Oklahoma. Emissions inspections, service history, and ownership records all reinforce the Blazer’s authenticity and consistent upkeep.

With its bold original styling, numbers-matching powertrain, and factory-loaded features, this 1986 Chevrolet Blazer 4X4 represents more than just a vintage SUV—it’s a time capsule of GM’s golden age of utility vehicles. It captures the adventurous ethos of the mid-1980s while standing tall as a dependable, collectible icon that’s as fun to drive today as it was when it first hit the trail.

At PC Classic Cars in Sherman, Texas, vehicles like this '86 Blazer are more than just inventory—they’re preserved legacies. Known for their dedication to quality and passion for classic vehicles, the team at PC Classic Cars ensures every car tells a story worth remembering.